Heavy monsoon rains in South Korea kill 37, leave 9 missing

The heavy rains have also led to the evacuation of 7,866 residents from their homes in the country.

President Yoon Suk Yeol, who is currently on a state visit to Eastern Europe, held a video conference on Sunday with the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters to receive updates on the extent of the damage caused by the rain and the government's response.

 Yoon expressed his condolences to the victims and stated his intention to lead a safety headquarters meeting upon his return to Korea.

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has been requested by Yoon to mobilize all possible resources and manpower to address the disaster.

As of Sunday morning, 1,239 soldiers have been deployed for relief efforts, with an additional 6,500 personnel on standby across the country, as confirmed by the Defense Ministry.

Han, during an emergency meeting, pledged to utilize all available resources from the military, police, fire authorities, and local governments to ensure public safety.

The latest data from the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters, as of 11 a.m. Sunday, reports 37 deaths primarily concentrated in the southeastern part of the country.

In North Gyeongsang Province, landslides and building collapses resulted in 17 fatalities, while North Chungcheong Province recorded 11 deaths.

The rains have also caused widespread flooding and damage to infrastructure. Roads have been washed out, bridges have collapsed, and homes and businesses have been destroyed.

The government has warned that the rains are expected to continue for several more days, and that more flooding and landslides are possible.

Authorities urge residents to stay safe and follow evacuation orders. (ILKHA)